Orange County CA Brings Cricket To Gauer ES In Anaheim

March 11, 2013

The Orange County Cricket Association (OCCA) youth cricket program continues introducing cricket to new elementary schools in 2013 with a successful cricket demonstration at Gauer Elementary School in the City of Anaheim. Certified Level-2 cricket coach Priyanga De Siva join the volunteer team, strengthening the core of the team that gives an opportunity for a more structured approach to this program.

Two sessions of 45 minutes each was scheduled for students in grades 5 & 6. After a brief introduction to cricket and watching video of a professional match for five minutes on a big screen, students were eager to get out to play cricket. Students got the opportunity to enjoy a taste of cricket, which was well received.

Dr. Debbie J. Schroeder, principal of the school, is very enthusiastic about this program that opens an opportunity for group of students who may not participate in other sporting teams. She assured OCCA that she is interested in follow-up assistance to train the teachers and more detail training at regular PE sessions.

This event was conducted by Shantha Suraweera (President, OCCA, and Level-1 Coach) and Priyanga De Silva (Level-2 coach).

From Debra J. Schroeder, Ed.D., Principal of Melbourne A. Gauer Elementary School in the Anaheim City School District:

"Our fifth and sixth grade scholars at Gauer Elementary School in the Anaheim City School District benefitted greatly from their exposure to the game of cricket. Shantha Suraweera and Priyanga De Silva shared their passion for the game through a well organized and inspirational presentation. They also guided a group of scholars to play the game for the first time while their peers cheered them on. The donated cricket equipment that they left behind will ensure that our scholars' mastery of the game of cricket will continue to grow. And, to my delight, the two coaches have expressed a willingness to come back and support our teachers' endeavors to make cricket a part of our physical education program. Gauer School gives our sincere thanks to these two volunteers, as well as to the U.S. Youth Cricket Association!"